Shabana Mahmood, a British-Pakistani MP of Kashmiri origin representing Birmingham, has been officially sworn in as the United Kingdom’s new Lord Chancellor. The ceremony took place at the Royal Courts of Justice, marking a historic moment as Mahmood became the first Muslim woman to hold this prestigious position.
In her role as Justice Secretary, Mahmood has committed to continuing the defense of the international rule of law and the protection of human rights. Speaking to the Lancashire Telegraph, she affirmed her dedication to these principles, emphasizing their importance in today’s world.
Taking to social media platform X, the 43-year-old Labour Party member shared her pride in her new appointment. “Today I was honoured to be sworn in as Lord Chancellor, promising to defend our independent judiciary from interference and undue pressure. I will be a champion of the Rule of Law. 900 years into this ancient role, it is more vital than ever before,” Mahmood wrote.
Hailing from Small Heath, Birmingham, Mahmood’s appointment is groundbreaking. She took her oath of allegiance on the Holy Quran and highlighted in her speech that she is the first Lord Chancellor to speak Urdu. Her inauguration was witnessed by key judicial figures including Lady Chief Justice Sue Carr, President of the Supreme Court Robert Reed, and Chancellor of the High Court Julian Flaux.
During her speech, Mahmood reiterated the new Labour government’s commitment to uphold the international rule of law and human rights, consistent with the European Convention on Human Rights established post-World War II. She acknowledged the current challenges within the justice system, particularly stressing the need for improved access to justice for women and girls affected by violence and abuse.
Lady Chief Justice Sue Carr, addressing Mahmood, spoke on the forthcoming challenges and the necessity of collaborative governance. “There will no doubt be challenges and choices to be made today and tomorrow. That is an inevitable feature of governing. We will work with you and your ministers as you face these demands. I very much look forward to forging a stable, long-term partnership with you as Lord Chancellor within, of course, constitutional bounds, in the service of justice and the achievement of justice,” Carr stated.
Mahmood’s appointment marks a significant milestone in the UK’s legal history, reflecting the country’s evolving commitment to diversity and inclusion in its highest offices.
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